Library Cataloging Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Description

The McHenry Public Library District is seeking an on-site Cataloging Librarian who is service-oriented and has a growth mindset to join our Technical Services Team. This position helps ensure accurate, accessible bibliographic records across a range of formats so our community can discover and use library resources. Responsibilities include cataloging library materials, both original and copy, adding and editing item data, and maintaining databases in accordance with local and national cataloging standards for print and non-print materials. The position also assigns classification numbers, maintains accurate bibliographic information, and serves as the main resource on cataloging rules. 

The ideal candidate is organized, has strong attention to detail, and is committed to high-quality work, while also being collaborative and adaptable. They should have solid cataloging knowledge, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well independently and as part of a team. The salary range for this position is approx. $24.52-$30.65/hour DOQ.  

Benefits: Include Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, IMRF (Pension Plan), vacation, sick, personal time benefits, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Schedule: This position primarily involves daytime hours, with the possibility of weekend work depending on departmental needs. 

Summary:

Under the supervision of the Technical Services Manager, this position is responsible for cataloging library materials, including original cataloging, copy cataloging, adding and editing item data, and database maintenance in accordance with local and national cataloging standards for print and non-print library materials. Assigns classification numbers, maintains accurate bibliographic information, and serves as the primary resource on cataloging rules. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Catalogs, classifies, and adds materials in all formats in English and other languages, across all age ranges, in accordance with national standards and local policies and practices.
• Performs original and copy cataloging of library materials, creating and enhancing MARC records per national and local cataloging standards for all materials.
• Search, create, and import MARC records from bibliographic databases, such as OCLC WorldCat, into the local ILS as needed.
• Assign classification and subject/genre headings to library materials as needed, using Dewey Decimal call numbers, Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), and other controlled vocabularies appropriate to the material type, and apply consortium standards.
• Maintains and updates bibliographic and item records to ensure catalog accuracy and consistency, re-catalogs materials as necessary, and merges duplicate records; generates spine labels. Resolves call number and other bibliographic issues.
• Troubleshot basic catalog, bibliographic, and item record issues.
• Participates in special cataloging, database cleanup, reclassification, and re-packaging projects. 
• Adapts to evolving cataloging standards, workflows, and technologies.
• Contributes to the documentation of cataloging procedures and provides input and feedback on workflow improvements.
• Collaborates with Technical Services staff and provides responsive customer service support to library staff, communicates with selectors on material classification, and updates accordingly. May serve as a resource for other library personnel concerning cataloging rules and practices.
• Triages items received from the collection floor to determine the need for reclassification or physical repair, and coordinates processing requests with appropriate departmental staff as needed.
• May perform acquisitions and serials control tasks as needed.
• May assist in staff training.
• May lead and/or participate in strategic objectives as assigned.
• Effectively uses library technology and equipment related to department functions and needs.
• Serves on library committees.
• Participates in professional development and networking activities both in person and online. 
• Maintain statistics on technical services activity and provide periodic reports, as directed.
• Performs other related work of a similar nature or level.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program, including relevant cataloging coursework; or equivalent professional work experience.
• Working knowledge of integrated library systems as well as other library applications relating to Technical Services.
• Experience with or knowledge of cataloging standards and controlled vocabularies, including MARC, RDA, LCSH, and OCLC cataloging utilities such as Connexion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient technology skills including: Microsoft Windows and Office applications, Google Suite applications, Internet, and the ability to adapt to changing technologies and standards.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work assignments independently or as a team.
• Ability to complete detailed work accurately, efficiently, and on time with minimal supervision and with strong attention to detail and ability to adapt to shifting priorities.
• Flexible and adaptable to new experiences, concepts, and technology.
• Bilingual in, or reading fluency in Spanish or Polish, desirable.

Working Conditions

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, and see.  
• The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach with hands and arms, get down on floors, climb stools, and perform other physical tasks.
• Repeated movements with the wrists, hands, and/or fingers while using a keyboard.
• Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., working with small objects or reading small print), including the use of computers.
• Work at the computer for extended periods (75-100%of daily hours).
• Employee may be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time of work, including possible extreme hot and cold weather.
• Noise level is generally similar to an office environment, but may be loud at times.
• The employee will occasionally lift, push, or move (library material and/or equipment) up to 35 pounds and push or pull book carts loaded with material weighing up to 150 pounds.
• Due to safety precautions, will be required to wear close-toed shoes.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 McHenry Public Library District participates in E-Verify. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.